Uncoil Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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uncoil

[ʌnˈkɔɪl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

rope

To unwind or untwist a coil or coils.

Synonyms

untwist, unwind.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
uncoil

When referring to something that was previously coiled or spiraled, like a rope or a snake.

  • The snake started to uncoil as it prepared to move.
  • She slowly uncoiled the garden hose.
unwind

When referring to relaxing after a period of stress or tension, or when unwinding something rolled or wound up, like a spool of thread or a clock spring.

  • After work, he likes to unwind by watching TV.
  • She carefully unwound the thread from the spool.
untwist

When something is twisted and needs to be straightened out, like a wire or a twisted piece of fabric.

  • He had to untwist the wires before making the connection.
  • She untwisted the tie before ironing it.

Examples of usage

  • The snake uncoiled itself and slithered away.
  • She uncoiled the rope from around the tree.
Context #2 | Verb

spring

To release or become free from a coiled or wound position.

Synonyms

release, unwind.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
uncoil

Best used when describing the action of a coiled object straightening out. Often used in a physical sense, like with springs, ropes, or snakes.

  • The snake began to uncoil from its resting position.
  • He had to uncoil the rope before using it.
release

Commonly used when referring to setting something or someone free from confinement, restraint, or another form of holding. Can also be used to describe making something available to the public, like a product or information.

  • They decided to release the prisoner after evidence proved his innocence.
  • The company will release the new software update next week.
unwind

Typically used to describe the process of relaxing after a period of stress or activity. It can also mean to untangle or straighten out something that is wound up.

  • After a long day at work, she likes to unwind with a good book.
  • He unwound the tangled wires carefully.

Examples of usage

  • The spring uncoiled with a loud noise.
  • He watched as the metal coil uncoiled slowly.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, uncoiling can relate to springs, where releasing tension allows them to return to their original shape.
  • Flowers often uncoil their petals as they bloom, which can be seen in species like the morning glory.
  • Some reptiles uncoil their bodies when they hunt, displaying camouflage and agility.

Literature

  • In literature, uncoiling is often used as a metaphor for revealing deeper truths or emotions, similar to peeling layers.
  • The imagery of a tightly wound character uncoiling can symbolize personal growth or a journey toward self-discovery.
  • Famous poems have depicted nature uncoiling with the arrival of spring, symbolizing renewal and hope.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and shows, scenes of characters uncoiling themselves often signify breaking free from constraints or past traumas.
  • Uncoiling is commonly seen in animation when characters that were previously coiled up relax and stretch out dramatically.
  • Figures like the 'uncoiling snake' are used in symbolism within various art forms, indicating freedom or transformation.

Psychology

  • Uncoiling can represent the release of built-up stress or anxiety, similar to how relaxation techniques encourage letting go of tension.
  • In therapy, talking through issues can be seen as a process of uncoiling one's thoughts and feelings to understand them better.
  • The idea of emotional uncoiling can help individuals visualize the decluttering of their minds.

Origin of 'uncoil'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'coil,' which means to wind or twist.
  • Originally derived from the Old French word 'coiler,' showing the evolution of language through time.
  • The concept of coiling is often used in different languages to describe circular or spiral shapes.

The word 'uncoil' originated from the combination of 'un-' meaning 'not' or 'opposite of' and 'coil' meaning 'to wind or twist into a circular or spiral form'. The concept of uncoiling has been observed in various aspects of nature, such as snakes uncoiling themselves for movement or springs uncoiling to release stored energy. The term has been used figuratively to describe the process of unwinding or releasing tension in a situation or relationship.


See also: coil, coiled, coiling, coils, recoil.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,814, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.